Method of embedding tooling control data within mechanical fixture design to enable programmable logic control verification simulation

US7346478B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ford Motor Company · US

Inventors

• Joe Walacavage · Ypsilanti, US
• Alan Baumgartner · Livonia, US
• Scott Kennedy · Warren, US
• Shanker Ganti · Canton, US
• Eric Newman · Eastleigh, GB

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 21, 2004
• Grant date: Mar 18, 2008
• Expiry date: Aug 15, 2025

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02P90/02
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method is provided of embedding tooling control data within a mechanical fixture design to enable programmable logic control verification simulation. The method includes the steps of constructing at least one of a mechanical fixture design, a workcell design, and a controls design. The method also includes the steps of executing a virtual programmable logic control (VPLC) simulation with a VPLC verification simulator to verify the at least one of the mechanical fixture design, the workcell design, and the controls design.